Hallo, ik ben Mervin Kuiper, ik ben een ervaren optometrische technicus die verstand heeft van het passen van contactlenzen en brillen, evenals het slijpen van glas voor lenzen. Werkt goed samen met anderen, heeft goede klantenservicevaardigheden en is in staat om leiding te geven aan toezichthoudende optometristen. Heeft een goed begrip van voorschriftbetekenissen en een technisch certificaat in optometrische technologie, samen met zes jaar ervaring.
Medical marijuana (cannabis) may offer a promising option for patients with chronic itch, according to a new case study.
Chronic itch — known clinically as chronic pruritus — is characterized as an unrelenting and sometimes even debilitating sensation to itch, and often lowers the quality of life for those who have it.
Treating the condition has proved difficult because there are few Food and Drug Administration-approved therapies.
“Chronic itch can be an especially difficult condition to treat, with off-label therapeutics often utilized,” says Shawn Kwatra, assistant professor of dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “With the increased utilization of medical marijuana and our knowledge of the role of the endocannabinoid system [a complex cell-signaling system that regulates a variety of functions in the body] in chronic itch, we decided to try medical marijuana with a patient who failed several therapies and had few options left.”
Kwatra and colleagues examined an African American woman in her 60s with a 10-year history of chronic itch. The patient initially arrived at the Johns Hopkins Itch Center with complaints of extreme pruritus on her arms, legs, and stomach. A skin examination revealed numerous hyperpigmented, raised skin lesions. The patient tried several treatments — including systemic therapies, centrally acting nasal sprays, steroid creams, and phototherapy — but they all failed.
Kwatra says that using medical marijuana — either by smoking or in liquid form — provided the woman with nearly instantaneous improvement.
“We had the patient rate her symptoms using a numerical rating scale, where 10 is the worst itch and zero is no itch at all,” Kwatra says. “She started at 10 but dropped to 4 within 10 minutes after initial administration of the medical marijuana. With continued use of the cannabis, the patient’s itch disappeared altogether.”
The researchers believe that one of the active ingredients in medical marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol — commonly known by its abbreviation THC — attaches itself to brain receptors that influence the nervous system. When this occurs, inflammation and nervous system activity decrease, which also could lead to a reduction in skin sensations such as itchiness.
Although conclusive studies have yet to be done to validate medical marijuana as an effective measure for the relief of previously unmanageable itch, Kwatra believes it warrants further clinical trials.
“Controlled studies are needed to determine dosing, efficacy, and safety for medical marijuana in the treatment of various human itch subtypes, and once those are performed, we will better understand which patients are most likely to benefit from this therapy,” he says.
Cannabis reform is sweeping the European continent, as evidenced by the fact that Malta recently passed the continent’s first-ever adult-use legalization measure.
A number of other countries have made it public that their current lawmakers have plans to do the same in the somewhat near future.
Italy is a European country that has been on the cusp of legalization for a handful of years now. Voters are likely to see a legalization referendum on the ballot next year.
Fortunately for the hardworking activists who pushed for the referendum, Italy’s Prime Minister indicated this month that the government has no plans to stand in the way of the referendum moving forward.
2021 Signature Drive
Earlier this year cannabis activists in Italy turned in roughly 630,000 signatures in an attempt to get limited cannabis legalization in front of voters.
The signature drive was originally launched in September 2021 and it only took a handful of weeks in order to get to the 630,000+ mark, thanks largely to new digital signature gathering provisions in Italy.
Activists around the globe were worried Italy’s government would try, at the very least, to slow down the process of the vote. Italy’s Prime Minister indicated otherwise.
“The government will not be constituted against the admissibility of referendums,” Prime Minister Mario Draghi said at a recent press conference (translated from Italian to English). “The government could in some cases have created conditions whereby the presentation would be postponed to next year and it has not done so.”
Building On Case Law
In late 2019, Italy’s Supreme Court determined that cannabis prohibition as it pertains to personal cultivation was unconstitutional, paving the way for adult-use legalization in Italy, at least to some degree.
The Court decision provides some protection. It also leaves more questions than answers, which is why the referendum measure is still necessary.
Since the 2019 ruling, lawmakers in Italy have tried to pass a comprehensive adult-use legalization measure. Passage of such legislation has remained elusive.
Thankfully, Italy has the referendum process in place so that the voters in Italy can do something that apparently the Supreme Court and lawmakers in Italy cannot do: end cannabis prohibition once and for all.
Isolating and refining cannabinoids is an exact science. There are thermodynamics and a lot of chemistry involved that, frankly, fly outside of this writer’s depth. To understand the role of accurate temperature control in reducing process times, recovering solvents, and improving purity, Cannabis & Tech Today spoke with Georg Kiefer, CEO of Huber.
His company pioneered the development of closed loop systems for creating concentrates. These systems prevent solvents from being exposed to the air, allow them to be reused, and reduce the risk of explosions.
Huber has been specializing in high precision temperature control solutions for more than fifty years.
Huber CEO George Kiefer. All photos courtesy of Huber.
Cannabis & Tech Today: What are some of the major challenges facing extractors?
George Kiefer: Long process times, low solvent recovery, and product impurities are some of the challenges faced by many extractors. Stable, accurate temperature control helps resolve these issues and allows precise, repeatable methods to be developed.
C&T Today: Labs and extractors use containers of hot water, known as open baths, to enable certain chemical reactions to occur at high temperatures. Huber created Unistats as an alternative to open baths. How are they unique?
GK: We have a saying, no matter where you are in your process, we have a Unistat for that!
Unistats are circulation thermostats without a temperature control bath. A much smaller internal tank replaces the conventional bath and an expansion vessel compensates for volume changes occurring due to thermal changes for externally connected systems.
The Unistat is therefore hydraulically sealed and can be located under the table without incurring any level problem.
In practice, there are other concrete advantages which arise in your result: tangibly shorter heating up and cooling down times, improved stability and reproducibility of the whole processing chain, more security for expensive glass reactors and the substances contained in them, as well as comfortable operation.
They are one of a kind with no alternatives, thermodynamically speaking.
C&TToday: Extraction equipment can be expensive and time-consuming to repair. How can processors get the most value from their technology?
GK: Be sure providers offer a warranty and responsive customer service. Huber offers a standard three-year warranty. Just this year, we upped it to 4 years on our open baths and circulators purchased after January 1, 2019.
Many cannabis companies shuttered in 2020 and we hoped to alleviate some economic burdens some are still facing by adding an additional year to these lines commonly used in the industry.
C&T Today: What’s the next big transition that needs to happen for temperature control solutions?
GK: Eco-friendly refrigerants. We offer a large part of our product range with environmentally-friendly refrigerants as standard.
The extraction industry is moving towards sustainability and this is an area we have always found key to growth on a global scale. More than anything, we want to help our partners and customers grow into entities that shape the world. ϖ
For centuries, cannabis prohibition did not exist at all. Thankfully, things are trending back in that direction, albeit slowly. In addition to the dozens of countries with medical cannabis laws, there are now three countries that have legalized cannabis for adult use.
Malta became the latest country to do so when lawmakers passed an adult use measure in recent weeks. Malta was the first in Europe to legalize.
Uruguay was the first on earth to legalize back in 2013 and Canada followed suit in 2018. Social cannabis use is permitted in some forms in all three nations.
Will Social Cannabis Use Become the Norm?
When people think about legalizing cannabis they often think of possessing, cultivating, and selling cannabis. While those are certainly components of full legalization, there are also other facets.
Social cannabis use is one of those facets. Social cannabis use is essentially when cannabis use occurs at a venue or an event.
It can either be an actual part of the business model, such as at a cannabis social hall where people pay to get in, or it can simply be allowed to occur on the property, such as a cannabis smoking section outside of a restaurant.
A “one-size-fits-all” approach to describing what social use is can be tough because social cannabis use can come in many forms.
If people can legally purchase cannabis, they need to be able to legally consume it somewhere, which can be tough at hotels and rental properties. Consuming openly in public is still taboo everywhere.
It’s why social use is a vital plank in the greater cannabis reform platform.
Industry Opportunities
Few sectors of the cannabis industry, if any, possess as much potential as social cannabis use. Cannabis tourism, which is going to be huge in the future, is just one component of social use.
Imagine a social business model and then apply cannabis to it. For example, many people like to play Bingo or video games. Now imagine a Bingo hall or arcade that also allows cannabis consumption.
Social cannabis use has the potential to make so many current businesses better, and lead to the creation of completely new businesses.
Obviously, there will be some limitations for safety reasons. Just as alcohol is not permitted to be combined with any and all activities, the same will be true for cannabis.
With that being said, many social use business models are straightforward and fairly cheap to start, which will lower the barrier of meaningful entry to the cannabis space for many people, and that is always a good thing.
Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has made one thing very clear: he’s pro-weed. In a fundraising email to his supporters in March 2021, he was very transparent.
“Voters in four more states this election voted to legalize adult recreational use of marijuana, and that proves once again it’s past time to work to undo the harm done by misplaced priorities, particularly in the Black and brown communities,” he wrote. “It’s time to decriminalize marijuana nationally.”
Those are bold yet unsurprising words from the senator who has been voicing his opinion on cannabis legislation for years. Let’s see just how close the U.S. is getting to legalization.
The New Road to Legalization
The good news for cannabis patients and enthusiasts is that Schumer’s words are being backed up by action.
In the spring, Schumer started working with Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) to release a draft bill to end federal marijuana prohibition.
As this is written, Schumer has claimed the bill will be on the floor soon but has not indicated how soon that will be.
It’s also unclear at this time what specifically this bill will entail; however, there is speculation that it will establish decriminalization before enacting full legalization.
It’s expected to remove cannabis from the list of federally controlled substances as well as promote social equity.
Schumer has claimed the bill will specifically seek to restrict the ability of large alcohol and tobacco companies to overtake the industry and instead prioritize small businesses, particularly those owned by people from communities most impacted by prohibition.
In the House, Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) said he plans to reintroduce his legalization bill, the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act, which cleared the House last year but did not advance in the GOP-controlled Senate.
With Democrats controlling the majority of both chambers, as well as the White House, there is a sense of optimism that comprehensive reform is achievable.
Step by Step, State by State
The 2020 election had four wins when it came to state-level legalization of marijuana. Arizona, New Jersey, South Dakota, and Montana all gathered enough votes to legalize recreational cannabis in their respective states, bringing the grand total of recreationally-legal states to fifteen.
Also, during the 2020 election, Mississippi voters approved a statute to legalize medical marijuana, a significant step for conservative states. However,
in May 2021, the effort took a step backward when the state’s highest court shot down the referendum, citing the fact that it did not meet a provision in the state’s Constitution requiring that 20% of signatures come from each of the five congressional districts (an impossible feat given that Mississippi went from five to four districts after 2000 and has failed to update the language in its Constitution). It’s believed to be the first time a medical marijuana initiative has been overturned after residents approved it at the ballot box. It remains to be seen if the issue will appear once again on 2022 ballots.
Minnesota and Nebraska are also expected to hand the issue over to voters in 2022 after their legalization bills failed to make it through their respective legislatures. To end on a positive note, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a medical marijuana legalization bill into law in May 2021, marking another important step forward for conservative states.
Giving Hemp a Boost
Hemp was legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill, but the Food and Drug Administration has still not finalized the process to allow derivatives such as CBD to be used in consumable products like food, drinks, and dietary supplements. A new Senate bill hopes to change that.
Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) (the same Senator working with Schumer on cannabis decriminalization), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have introduced the Hemp Access and Consumer Safety Act, which would exempt “hemp, hemp-derived cannabidiol, or a substance containing any other ingredient from hemp” from certain restrictions that have blocked the emergence of legal consumable hemp products.
The bill also states that officials may establish labeling and packaging requirements for hemp-derived products.
In a press release, Wyden explained, “CBD products are legally being used and produced across the nation. Yet because the FDA has failed to update its regulations, consumers and producers remain in a regulatory gray zone … It’s long past time for the FDA to get with the program, for the sake of the American consumers and farmers.” As this is written, the Bill has not yet passed. However, if or when it does, it would provide relief to hemp farmers, processors, and merchants all over the U.S. ϖ
With everything starting to reopen, we might need to return to the office sooner than we think. In this case, what’s a dog-mum or dad to do – especially if your pup veers on the more anxious side? Well, you heard it here first: CBD oil could potentially help dogs with anxiety.
With CBD touted as a cure-all, we all know that this isn’t – or it can’t be – the case. After all, there have been some pretty tall CBD-related claims. However, in the case of dogs with anxiety, studies show that CBD oil could help with this.
At CBD Village, we understand the stresses of being a pet parent. Leaving your fur-baby for hours at a stretch can wreak havoc on their emotions – and yours. In this case, CBD oil could be worth a try.
What Is Canine Anxiety?
Before we delve into using CBD oil to treat anxiety in dogs, we’ll first establish what exactly canine anxiety is. We’ll also go over a few common symptoms; this can help establish whether or not your dog has anxiety. However, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a vet.
Canine anxiety, in a nutshell, is when your dog experiences feelings of anxiousness, over a prolonged period. It’s important to remember that dogs experience anxiety at different times – just like humans. Therefore, just because your dog sometimes gets anxious doesn’t mean that they’ve got full-blown anxiety.
Studies indicate that canine anxiety comes down to three different reasons:
Fear: New situations, discomfort, and different environments can cause fear in your precious pooch. When your dog is out of its element, they can get scared. This could be from something as simple as you changing the living room layout, to switching from their at-home routine to one at doggie daycare.
Past experiences: Many rescue dogs also suffer from anxiety due to their histories. From abandonment to neglect, these traumatic situations can play a role in a dog’s anxiety levels. Therefore, if you’ve adopted a rescue during the lockdown, they might be more anxious than others.
Separation: No one has loved your WFH arrangement more than your dog. With cuddles upon request and fetch on tap, it truly is alright for some. However, when you have to head back to the office, this can lead to serious bouts of separation anxiety.
What Symptoms Can I Look Out For?
If put in these situations, your dog could exhibit certain behavioural changes over a prolonged period. If you think your dog has anxiety, there are some tell-tale symptoms.
Here, you should look out for barking, destructive behaviour, and regressing on any toilet training. Anxious dogs can also lose their appetites, or exhibit repetitive behaviours.
Be patient with your four-legged friend! They’re dealing with this new situation as best as they can. However, here’s where CBD oil could come in handy, to help dogs with their anxiety.
My Dog Has Anxiety; Can CBD Oil Help?
Research indicates that yes, CBD oil could help your anxiety-riddled pup. In fact, several animal studies reflect this. Mainly centering rats, these studies reflect how a healthy dose of CBD oil could potentially help with anxiety.
The first article, a medical review from June 2012, explored the idea of cannabidiol as an anxiolytic drug. Anxiolytic drugs are commonly used to treat anxiety, and can be prescribed in several different forms. The review concluded that several studies indicated that CBD has an anxiolytic effect on the animal subjects.
Additionally, a study from 2006 explored the relationship between CBD and the Vogel conflict test in rats. Generally, researchers use the Vogel test to measure anxiety in animals. Results concluded that CBD could reduce anxiety-related behaviours in rats.
Based on these studies, CBD oil could be a promising treatment for dogs with anxiety. However, if you’re unsure whether your dog should take CBD, or how much to give your dog, it’s always best to consult with a vet. By doing this, you can be sure that CBD is the best possible treatment for your anxiety-riddled pup.
Buyer Beware: CBD Oil Options for Anxious Dogs
If you’re a CBD enthusiast, you might be happy utilising a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD tincture in your wellness routine. However, this might not work as well for your canine companion. While studies show that CBD is safe for dogs, THC certainly isn’t.
In fact, THC could harm your dog – even in trace amounts. Therefore, when it comes to your dog, it’s best to steer clear from THC-infused options. This means that full-spectrum CBD is completely off the table.
But what about broad-spectrum CBD? There hasn’t been much research on other cannabinoids regarding anxiety in dogs. Due to this, we’d recommend that you err on the side of caution, and step away from the broad-spectrum CBD – especially when it comes to treating anxious dogs.
Instead, try some CBD isolate. This is CBD in its purest form – no other cannabinoids or terpenes. Generally, CBD isolate is completely free from THC, making it a totally safe option for your anxious canine companion.
However, you should go the extra mile and do your research. Always purchase CBD from a reputable retailer. You should also browse the CBD isolate’s Certificate of Analysis (or COA) before making a purchase. By doing this, you can ensure that your dog’s CBD oil is completely free from THC.
We’d also recommend that you start out with a fairly low dose of CBD. You might have heard the adage that there’s no, “one size fits all” approach to CBD dosage. It’s the same for animals – your dog’s breed, size, and age can all affect how much CBD they should take.
My Dog Is a Picky Eater – Will They Like CBD Oil?
There’s no real way to guarantee that your dog will like CBD oil in its purest form. After all, it’s hard to swallow for even some of us! Thankfully, there are many ways to add CBD to your dog’s diet – without making a dog’s dinner out of the whole thing.
Most CBD oils come with a dropper. You can always go the old-school method: administering CBD oil directly into your dog’s mouth. While CBD oil on its own is the easiest method, it could worsen anxiety in dogs – especially if they’re already a picky eater.
Thankfully, all isn’t lost – we still have a few tricks up our sleeve! Adding a few drops of CBD oil to your dog’s meals should have the same effect. After all, they’re still consuming CBD; you’re just masking the taste.
You could also make some CBD-infused dog treats. While this might be a little time-consuming, you can control how much CBD oil the treats contain, and how often to give one to your good boy (or girl!). Plus, this is a great way to ensure that your dog actually looks forward to their CBD dose, and isn’t cowering away in fear and disgust.
No matter how you choose to administer the CBD oil, remember to start slow, with small doses. By slowly working your way up, you won’t be introducing too much of a good thing to your dog’s diet, far too soon. You’ll also be able to monitor their reaction, ensuring that everything goes smoothly!
Cannabis edibles are one of the industry’s fastest-growing sectors, and their popularity is due to them being among the easiest ways to consume CBD. However, not all CBD strains are suitable to be added to these products. The right strains are required for the industrial production of cannabis edibles. Given their wide variety, it’s not that difficult to get confused when looking for the best strain for making cannabis edibles. Today, we want to make understanding the question easier for you with a detailed guide that includes the main characteristics of CBD strains that can help you find the best strain for edibles.
Sativa strains vs. Indica strains
First of all, it’s important to understand that there are two main groups of cannabis plant strains: sativa and indica. Each of them has its own characteristics (appearance and taste, for example), and both are the base of other, more specific strains, which we will talk about today. The first group of strains, sativa, grows in various parts of Africa and Asia and usually has lower CBD content. In contrast, the second group, indica, is native to countries such as Afghanistan, India, Pakistan and Turkey. These plants grow faster than sativa, and their CBD content can be high. So, both groups are different, and the particular strains with varying combinations of cannabinoids and other compounds are more diverse.
So, is sativa or indica better for edibles? Actually, the answer is “both”. That’s why many CBD hemp strains are hybrids (blends of sativa and indica) with different ratios of both groups. We have compiled a list of the six best hybrid and non-hybrid strains for edibles that can complement your meal with a unique style, so let’s check them out.
Don’t forget that before you bake with hemp flowers, they should be decarboxylated by heating them. During this process, many chemical components of the flowers like terpenes and flavonoids are removed, as are acidic cannabinoids (CBDA and THCA) converted into CBD and THC, respectively. To decarb the flowers, they are ground, then placed on a baking sheet and left in a preheated oven at 110 °C for about 40 minutes.
№ 1. The White Widow strain
The first strain we’re going to look at is White Widow, one of the most recognisable strains since the 1990s, which is becoming a consumer favourite. This strain is rich in CBD (just under 18%) and has a slightly sweet, earthy, woody and spicy taste with notes of peach, skunk and fruit. The buds of this strain are white (that’s where the strain gets its name from), and the flowers themselves are tapered and pointed.
Making edibles is not the only application the White Widow can be used for. This strain, like many others, has resin as one of the components of the plant, and the World Health Organisation notes that this element can make the strain potent. For example, the resin can be broken down into an oil and used in hemp by-products. According to some people, White Widow is considered a perfect strain to use for edibles.
Are you keen to start your day with a boost of energy by having a cup of tea and your favourite dessert? If you are a fan of all things old school and classic, this strain with its light taste can be a perfect addition to your CBD edibles.
№ 2. The Buddha Cheese strain
This strain has more CBD content than the others we feature in this guide — the CBD level of Buddha Cheese is less than 23%. CBD hemp made from this strain, which is one of the most popular in the UK, has an exciting blend of cheesy, earthy, pungent and herbal flavours with notes of mint and fresh fruit. Have you ever tasted a balanced mix of cheese and fruits in your butter, cookie or cake?
Since its appearance in the early 2000s, this strain has been gaining in popularity. A cheesy, earthy and fruity taste is a combination that has little chance of dying out. Do you enjoy your evening meal or tea session after a busy day at work? If so, why not say “Cheese!” and try this CBD strain when making your edibles?
№ 3. The Strawberry strain
Do you like strawberries and crave more fruit flavours than we found in the previous two? If so, we’re guessing that you, like many of us, have loved strawberries ever since you were a child. This berry is a delicious ingredient in many desserts, so the Strawberry CBD hemp strain may be just the solution to complement your morning tea party on your own or with friends and family. These hemp flowers have less than 18% CBD (so they are the least CBD potent of the six reviewed in this guide) and have a strong berry flavour with sweet cream and earthy notes.
If you’re looking for a strain with the strongest flavour, it’s almost impossible to find one that can replace Strawberry. Its aroma will make your desserts more enjoyable and tasty. As for its appearance, the strain has large nugs that are covered with trichomes.
If you are a big fan of berries and want to fill your bag of edibles with the sweet taste of these wonderful fruits, this one might be worth a try.
№ 4. The Super Silver Haze strain
This strain has been another consumer favourite from the latter half of the 1990s, and it is rich in CBD (just under 22%). And what about the taste? The Super Silver Haze strain has hints of citrus but overall a herbal, sour and earthy taste. The strain’s name refers to the way the hemp buds look (as if they’ve been dipped in fresh, just-fallen snow).
Want to transport yourself to a tropical forest, get an energy boost and a second wind during a tough day? Make your dessert sunnier, even if the name of the strain says otherwise.
№ 5. The Blueberry strain
Don’t like strawberries and prefer other berries? Okay, there’s an option for you, too. Coming into play is the Blueberry CBD hemp, one of the most classic and common strains. This strain has more CBD content than its strawberry counterpart (around 20%). You probably don’t need to wonder about its taste since everything about it is spelled out in the strain’s name. The taste is sweet with the flavour of fresh juicy blueberries mixed with the colourful hues of the berries. It also sounds like summer, doesn’t it? Bringing sunny vibes to cold and rainy autumn evenings is essential for a good mood and decent productivity during the fall season.
The Blueberry strain is considered one of the best choices for making edibles like butter and sweet dishes. So, this is another option for those who like time-tested strains with the taste of berries.
№ 6. The Orange Bud strain
Want to add a fresh citrus flavour to your CBD edibles? If so, the Orange Bud strain may be the answer. Flowers of this strain contain 19% CBD and can make your meal or tea session more enjoyable in a summery and tropical way. The strain has a citrus taste with notes of ripe orange and nectarine.
The Orange Bud strain is colourful in appearance and reminiscent of clementines. It has bushy, profuse buds, numerous bright orange hairs and a lush covering of trichomes, making this cultivar sticky and gummy. It also has vibrant shades of green, amber and yellow spots.
This strain is suitable for those who want an energy boost in the morning or during the middle of the day. It can also add a strong citrus flavour to your edibles.
Final thoughts
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the diverse range of CBD varieties and which are the best strains to make cannabutter, cakes and cookies. Still don’t know which strain to pick? If you want to bake these kinds of edibles yourself, choosing the strain you are most familiar with is the best option. All CBD hemp made by Marry Jane is meticulously grown in the company’s indoor plantations with no herbicides or pesticides. Our products are certified with ISO 9001 international QMS standards and comply with the CBD and THC legislation of many European countries. Please check your local and international legislation governing CBD and THC and remember that the illegal production, consumption and distribution of products containing both compounds mentioned above is prohibited. So, be sure to choose only trustworthy manufacturers.
In late August 2020, a storm howling with hurricane-force winds swept through the Midwest, damaging nearly 40 million acres of farmland.
Illinois farmers watched helplessly as 6.95 million acres of corn endured wind speeds above 100 miles per hour.
Unpredictable weather patterns are becoming more frequent, and the agriculture industry is facing more instability as a result.
For hemp farmers in the Midwest, the only guarantee against crop loss is insurance.
It’s not just storms growers have to prepare for; it’s all varieties of weather.
If yields are lower than expected or a heatwave stunted growth, there’s insurance for that. What if the cannabinoid levels aren’t within the desired thresholds?
That’s something crop insurance can cover as well.
Illinois hemp farmers, more than many other regions, are dealing with large-scale production.
They’re working with bigger yields and, as such, greater risks.
John Read, the founder of Hempsurance, is a fourth-generation Illinois farmer who understands the state’s unique advantages.
“We see large production agriculture being the leader in making hemp a mainstay crop in the U.S. When you farm in the Midwest, as opposed to other areas of the country, we’ve got large equipment and we understand how to farm at scale. We have rich soils which drive large yields quickly over a large scale of acres.”
This economy of scale makes the need for insurance even more pronounced, as a loss of even a small portion of one’s harvest could have huge financial implications.
Read says the biggest hurdle for farmers is understanding what they need to protect.
“We help the grower understand what his true costs are so we can make sure he’s insured to break even or ultimately even insure some type of profit on an annual basis.”
Read’s Hempguard program can insure up to $15,000 an acre, a unique advantage of being the nation’s first private outdoor hemp crop insurance program.
Losses endured by the farmer impact more than one person’s livelihood.
Each year, agriculture contributes $17 million to the state’s economy. Everyone benefits when farmers are protected.
These days, it seems like there’s a lot to insure against. Insects are always a threat. Disease can rear its ugly head at any time.
Plus, with hemps’s relatively recent arrival to the domestic agriculture scene, there’s still a lot to learn about how it performs and which threats are most pressing.
“As this is a new crop, we simply do not know what is and is not working in the Midwest,” said Philip Alberti, an Illinois Extension commercial agriculture educator. Hempsurance also protects against mold, leaf spot, and other quality concerns.
The most important aspect of finding an insurance agency is making sure the company understands the farmer’s needs.
“Our company is completely hemp-focused. We understand the market from the grower side all the way through the distribution channels to help ensure farmers are properly protected,” said Read. ϖ
Jólabókaflóð or “Christmas/Yule Book Flood,” is an Icelandic holiday tradition consisting of exchanging books with friends and loved ones on Christmas Eve, then spending the evening reading them aloud to one another, while gathered in front of the fireplace, or curled up in bed with a partner and perhaps some chocolate and cozy drinks.
The tradition is similar to the Danish philosophy of Hygge.
While giving books as holiday gifts is not unique to Iceland, their tradition of exchanging books on Christmas Eve and then spending the evening reading is becoming a cultural phenomenon and a practice worth passing along.
The tradition derives from a scarcity of Christmas gifts during WWII, making books the most practical gifts, and has evolved to eagerly anticipated catalogs of Jólabókaflóð circulating for advanced ordering.
In the spirit of the Jólabókaflóð (phonetically pronounced yo-la-bok-a-flot.) tradition, the following are some selections for the cannabis curious on Christmas Eve.
Written by award-winning cannabis journalist Amanda Siebert, with a foreword by Dr. Rav Ivker, this fun, illuminating book outlines 10 evidence-based ways cannabis can help with everything from decreasing anxiety to increasing one’s libido to motivating weight-loss to improving sleep.
In it, Siebert delves deep into cannabis research, interviewing some of the world’s top researchers, medical professionals, and consultants to separate marijuana fact from fiction.
She also offers practical advice for enjoying its benefits, including easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for consumption and dosage, as well as examples of real people who have used this drug to enhance their lives.
Cannabis, it turns out, could be life-changing: it can enrich any diet, slow down aging, and even spice things up in the bedroom. It is a perfect guidebook for the canna-curious person on your Christmas list.
Cannabis and Sustainable Development: Paving the Way for the Next Decade in Cannabis and Hemp Policy, published by FAAAT Editions. by Kenz Riboulet-Zemoulii, Michael Krawitz, et. al. explains how cannabis cultivation aligns with the United Nation’s sustainable development goals.
Two of the most extraordinary things about this well-researched book are 1) It comes in English and Spanish and 2) It is absolutely free; although I recommend that people be kind and make a donation to FAAAT, the non-profit organization of activists who published the book, to at least cover postage and support their excellent mission!
The Sustainable Cannabis Policy Toolkit is a comprehensive report analyzing the opportunities and challenges of cannabis & hemp regulations under the policy framework of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
It compiles the findings of an international multi-stakeholder working group (2016-2019).
It includes a series of action-oriented recommendations to align cannabis & hemp laws and policies with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The work is a significant contribution to post-prohibition studies.
According to one of the authors, Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli, “The toolkit assists decision-makers, scholars, policy advocates, as well as curious minds and the general public, in adopting a regulatory approach to cannabis & hemp that balances health, profits, peoples, societies, and the environment.”
Hodges says, “I wrote this book because it’s what I wish I had growing up.
I wrote this for anyone who wants to escape The Shaming Place.
I wrote it for mothers and fathers who want to open a conversation with their daughters (and sons) around virginity – a concept that we are collectively rebranding as a sexual debut. Let there be cake!
It’s my hope that this light-hearted book opens up a world of possibility.
I hope that all women today remember their power, and the women who come after us are never made to forget it.
I wrote it for you because you are worthy of pleasure. You ARE pleasure.”
High as a Kite is a collection of decade-defining, kitschy ’80’s tattoo flash, paintings, illustrations, photography, and memorabilia assembled by Houston tattoo artist, Danny G.
WEED contains smoking, cooking, and cultivation tips, as well as proper stoner etiquette and a guide to must-see destinations around the world.
As legalization sweeps the globe, a whole new generation of younger millennials and Gen Z benefit from the advocacy and revolution enacted by their Boomer, Gen X, and elder millennial forebearers.
Unfortunately, a whitewashed, legal weed bro culture is evolving simultaneously with broccoli heads. WEED is the antidote to that.
Journalist Michelle Lhooq lives in Los Angeles, California, the first state to legalize cannabis via Prop 64.
Through her interviews with weedfluencers and personal experience, she presents a guidebook with valuable tips on smoking joints, vapes, and concentrates; making edibles and infused cocktails, cultivating at home, and locating dispensaries.
Complete with vibrant, kitschy hand-drawn illustrations by the artist Thu Tran, Weed is a cool coffee table book for people who need a book to roll weed on while couch-locked because they are too stoned to find their rolling tray.
The Marijuana Grower’s Handbook, by Tom McCarthy, is written by an off-the-grid outdoorsman under a pseudonym.
This book is a practical growing guide for those curious about learning the art and science of cannabis cultivation.
Cultivation enthusiasts who are not as knowledgeable as Danny Danko and do not own a BiFarm will find this handbook helpful.
The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook: More Than 50 Irresistible Recipes That Will Get You High, by Elise McDonough.
Back in the day when High Times was the leading authority on everything weed before legalization began sweeping the globe, legacy cannabis chef Ms. McDonough wrote the infused version of The Joy of Cooking.
This classic, enduring cookbook is always an appropriate gift for edibles aficionados.
The book’s highlight is its chapter on holiday fare, featuring a THC turkey injected with a “magic marinade” that, in conjunction with tryptophan, could mellow out the most dysfunctional family gatherings.
Think Michael Pollan’s How to Change Your Mind meets Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run in this immersive, investigative look at the hidden culture of cannabis use among elite athletes (as well as weekend warriors).
The surprising emerging science behind the elusive, exhilarating “runner’s high” they all seek goes beyond endorphins.
The premise of this book is that cannabis makes exercise fun.
The link between performance enhancement and cannabis was used to expel athlete Sha’Carri Richardson from an international competition on the premise that she took a “performance enhancer” on her days off.
If using cannabis enhances one’s athletic performance, why is there still a skewed perception that herb only produces lazy, couch potato stoners?
Scientists have conducted extensive research that uncovers the power of the “runner’s high” – the true holy grail of aerobic activity that was long believed to be caused by endorphins.
In an extraordinary reversal, scientists believe marijuana may actually be the key to getting more Americans off their phones and on to their feet.
However, before you jump-start your new year with a resolution to exercise more, snuggle up with a good cannabis book and hygge the holidays on Christmas Eve’s Jólabókaflóð.
The World Health Organization estimates that as many as 1 out of every 160 children has some level of Autism spectrum disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior, with varying levels of severity.
Difficulty with social interactions and restrictive or repetitive patterns of behavior are common characteristics of autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers around the globe have investigated whether the cannabis plant may be able to treat the condition, with differing results depending on the study.
CBD Versus THC
The cannabis plant contains dozens of cannabinoids, with CBD and THC being two of the most well known examples.
CBD is a particularly popular cannabinoid for research that involves children, including adolescent autism spectrum disorder, because CBD does not cause euphoria.
THC, on the other hand, does induce euphoria, which is a major taboo when it comes to treating children with any condition, no matter how debilitating the condition may be.
However, researchers in Israel recently determined that THC may be a better treatment for adolescent autism spectrum disorder.
“Studies that are underway mostly don’t focus enough on the details of what it is in the cannabis that may be helping people,” researcher Shani Poleg told The Times of Israel. “In our study, we looked at the details, and came up with surprising and interesting findings.
“THC was more effective. The main difference was that THC treatment also improved social behavior, not only repetitive compulsive behavior,” Poleg said.
Reducing the Stigma
One thing that is absolutely worth noting is that in a perfect scenario, no patient would ever be forced to choose between CBD and THC.
Rather, they could use both if both cannabinoids are determined to be safe and effective for the particular patient and scenario.
Yes, THC does induce euphoria. However, so do many other medicines that are given to children every day across the globe, including non-cannabis medicines used to treat adolescent autism spectrum disorder.
Some day, hopefully, THC will not carry the stigma that it currently does, and parents and doctors will be able to base their treatment decisions solely on science and not have their decisions influenced by anti-cannabis propaganda.
As many of us stayed sequestered in our home offices throughout 2021, constantly reminded of the importance of health and hygiene, the CBD industry shifted to address these and the other concerns brought about by the pandemic.
We saw a large pop in high-THC products throughout 2021, for example, and an equally significant shift towards immunity-focused CBD products featuring new botanicals.
Large CBD research initiatives took aim at anxiety and sleep, which were fitting targets in 2021 for reasons we’re all tired of hearing; plus, our 2021 US CBD Consumer Report that surveyed over 3,500 people nationwide rolled out as well.
All the while, individual consumers and the organizations that represent them continue the seemingly endless effort to goad the FDA into stepping up the state of hemp regulation.
There was plenty of good, bad, and “what, why?” when all of the industry is taken into account; here’s a look at some of the most important trends we observed across the CBD industry in 2021.
Perhaps delta-9 THC is receiving less skepticism because of the favorable comparison to delta-8 THC, which has been a regulatory mess for everyone involved.
Delta-8 THC is a close “relative” of delta-9 THC in that its composition and effects (intoxicating, like delta-9) are very similar.
Earlier in 2021, several brands began offering delta-8 THC products as a “legal high” that worked around delta-9 THC restrictions.
The rift was clear early on; some brands opted to give delta-8 a very wide berth, while others embraced the cannabinoid.
Though there were other reasons, regulators were mostly riled up because, in order for a CBD product to contain more than a negligible amount of naturally scarce delta-8 THC, the manufacturer had to synthetically derive the cannabinoid from CBD.
Hence, the middle and latter half of 2021 saw vehement warnings from the FDA and CDC as well as plenty of legislative scrambling on the state level to ban or restrict delta-8 THC.
We’ve been closely monitoring the delta-8 THC situation, which isn’t quite over yet—we will continue to follow up as more developments surface.
Pressure on FDA Continues to Rise
Exactly three years after the 2018 Farm Bill—which effectively ended the federal ban on hemp by defining legal “industrial hemp”—was enacted, the US Hemp Roundtable released this statement entitled “It’s Been Three Years and FDA Still Refuses to Regulate CBD.”
The irony of the release date is not lost on this battle-worn pro-consumer group, which has stepped up to the plate repeatedly to enhance the state of CBD regulation so that consumers can stop playing Russian roulette with CBD products.
Though the House of Representatives has proposed multiple actions this year that would pressure the FDA to regulate CBD (HR 841 and the CBD Product Safety and Standardization Act) and several in the years prior, nothing comes to fruition.
Even with largely bipartisan support, each effort seems to fizzle out and loop back to no avail.
Though we’re all waiting, we’re not waiting idly—thanks to the U.S. Hemp Authority and other certifying bodies, customers at least have some assurances that the products they’re buying are tested and manufactured in compliance with high standards.
Supporting these pieces of legislation and the US Hemp Roundtable is a win-win for both hemp supporters and opponents because the industry is already here—it’s now about consumer safety.
A Shift Towards High-THC Products
Industry mainstays and smaller brands alike took a much more liberal approach to delta-9 THC in 2021 than we have seen in previous years.
Up until 2021, the vast majority of CBD brands were still pretty tentative, often disclaiming more than once on the labeling that their products were either THC-free or well below the legal limit.
Now, brands like PlusCBD, Five, Cornbread, and others are more boldly advertising the (considerably higher) THC content, even advertising the milligrams per serving on the front of the label.
To be clear, all of the cases mentioned are still compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill, as these brands have ratcheted up the overall hemp concentration so that 5mg/serving is still below the 0.3% line.
Interested in the best full-spectrum CBD oil? See our Best CBD Oil of 2021 award winner.
Gummies Gain Ground
On a much less contentious note, CBD gummies were by no means the new kid on the block at the beginning of 2021, but their steady climb seemed to accelerate into a run as brands read the writing on the wall.
According to our 2021 consumer report, gummies are the preferred product by nearly 1 in 5 current CBD consumers.
Beyond the sheer volume, we were also pleased to see ample attention to making improvements in ingredient and formulation quality, extract availability, taste and texture, variety, and more.
Suffice it to say, the bar has officially been raised; it is now much easier to find a potent, synergistically formulated CBD gummy filled with organic ingredients and far less sugar.
Like the “gummy boom,” we were also privy to the synergistic formulation trend well before 2021 rolled around, but it certainly picked up throughout the year.
On both the cannabinoid front (expanding beyond the big three: CBN, CBG, and CBD) and the supporting botanicals front, the industry observed a sweeping effort to back up CBD with dozens of new ingredients.
Where before you may have seen “melatonin” or “valerian root” slapped onto a label as more of a marketing ploy, we are now seeing research-driven formulations that integrate L-theanine, elderberry, vitamin B, ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane, manuka honey, mushrooms, and dozens of other botanicals.
Most importantly, these formulations are actually aimed at immunity (relevant much?), focus, and other functional targets.
As always, we’ll maintain a critical approach when evaluating these products to weed out hacky marketing tactics from the real research-backed formulations, but in 2021, we saw more of the latter.
Gone are the days of the 10-person qualitative CBD trial; CBD companies and partnering laboratories are seriously stepping up their research efforts as the FDA continues to ask for more data.
Once again, we have to applaud CBDistillery for their massive strides in this direction throughout 2021 and before.
Dubbed “pathfinder missions,” CBDistillery pledged earlier in the year to embark on 8 studies in partnership with the Releaf App, a cannabis use tracking app that allows people to log their dosage, experiences with products, and more.
These studies will assess the impact of (CBDistillery) CBD products on sleep, anxiety, and much more, while also illuminating general use habits among large pools of participants.
We’ve also seen bioscience developers like Lexaria ambitiously pitting their proprietary CBD formulations against FDA-approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug used for seizures.
Finally, we’re seeing CBD brands make actual consumer-facing changes in lieu of positive research results, like nanoemulsion or liposomal delivery systems, as modeled by Elixinol.
Based on our observations throughout 2021 as well as conversations with well-positioned advocates and brand representatives, here’s what we believe will happen (or not happen) within the CBD industry in 2022 and beyond:
As per our illuminating conversation with the US Hemp Authority President Dr. Marielle Weintraub, we agree that states will continue to reconcile differences in hemp labeling laws and other regulations to allow for smoother interstate commerce as the FDA continues to make everyone wait on federal regulation.
On that note, it’s highly unlikely that either side of the hemp consumer advocate/lobbyist coin (industry self-regulation and pressuring the FDA) will ease up in their pursuit for greater safety and transparency standards.
Another important interview we held this year—a look under the National Hemp Association’s hood with executive director Erica Stark—revealed that the hemp fiber industry is probably going to advance with less of a rocky takeoff than we’re seeing with consumer products.
“In 5-10 years we’re going to see industrial hemp become as traditional row crops like corn; we’ll see lots of processing centers pop up, paper products, and bioplastics,” Erica told us.
Finally, though high-THC products and the greater focus on gummies isn’t likely to go away anytime soon, we are curious as to whether or not the new delivery methods (like nanoemulsion and liposomal) and synergistic products prove to be trend-proof.
From the CBD Insider editorial team, we’d like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday—we’ll see you next year!
If luxurious baubles and sensational scents, rather than snackable edibles, are the way to your significant other’s heart this holiday season, below is a list of exquisite gift ideas for the cannabis consumer in your life.
If diamonds are a bit out of your budget this Christmas, delight the cannabis cutie on your naughty or nice list with these faux leather, vegan, and cruelty-free, forest green earrings.
Polished off with gold plated brass studs, each pair are handcrafted by a female-owned-and-operated business, Camera line in Los Angeles.
“As seasoned cannabis enthusiasts and artists, we are loud and proud of this magical plant,” says Camera line designer Caroline Murphy.
There is no better way to support an artisan’s small business and proudly let your cannabis flag fly than by picking up a pair of these beauties to wear to the Emerald Cup.
Jan Leslie’s hand-painted cannabis cufflinks retail for $450 and are made from 925 sterling silver with a hand-painted enamel overlay detail. The cufflinks are 0.7″W x 0.78″H.
From Italian luxury perfumer Bois 1920’s cannabis collection comes Cannabis Fruttata.
With top notes of origan, rosemary, and fig leaves; heart notes of Cannabis, Blueberry, and Lily of the Valley; and base notes of patchouli, ambergris, and Cedarwood, this delicious complex perfume is a journey unto itself.
For those who prefer the more traditional, straightforward scent of Cannabis, this earthy, classic scent is a modern twist of the expression of cannabis flower.
A slightly impudent perfume, surprisingly seductive and intriguing with a top note of cannabis, heart notes of cannabis and patchouli, base notes of light woods, and – you guessed it – even more cannabis!
Both scents retail for $185 and are made in Italy.
Cannador is a swank stash box that functions as a humidor to keep smaller amounts of cannabis separated and fresh. It includes glass cups that contain adjustable, ventilated lids and airtight lids.
The box set includes four 0.25 ounce glass cups (or up to ½ oz ground), adjustable ventilated lids, airtight lids, lock, and key.
It has a double-fitted rim and tight seal to prevent odor leakage, a nook to hold accouterments, and a hidden magnet closure. Cannador retains for $219 but is currently on sale at Bloomingdale’s.
A traditional rolling pin with a cheeky pot leaf pattern makes a unique, funny gift for the baker in your life. Baking with an embossed rolling pin is fun!
The rolling pins are an optimum size with a large engraving surface.
They measure 15.8” (40 cm), including the handles. The embossing part is 7.5” (19 cm), and the diameter is 2.4” (6 cm).
This laser engraved, hand-polished rolling pin is made of beech wood. It is sealed with a protective wood conditioner made from organic food-grade oil.
Because this is a natural wood product, color variations might differ from what is depicted.
There might also be visible wood rings on the engraved surface.
Nannette de Gaspé’s Bain Noir Cannabis Sativa Bath Soak Treatment is a 16-ounce bath soak that relaxes, soothes, and hydrates the skin.
With key ingredients of cannabis Sativa oil and meadowfoam seed oil, this luxurious, cruelty-free bath soak is free of parabens. This gooey, jet-black product is strangely evocative of S&M play anal beads and retails for $275.00.
Cannabis Santal by fresh is a sensual woodsy fragrance that “captures the raw energy of desire,” according to fresh.
Retailing for $90, with top notes of bergamot, Brazilian orange, black plum, middle notes of patchouli, cannabis accord, rose and bottom notes of chocolate, vetiver, vanilla musk, this cloying scent will not be easily forgotten.
Rumor has it that Bruce Willis orders this scent by the case.
Lev Glazman, fresh’s co-founder, likens the smell of Cannabis Santal to the feeling of hating to tear yourself away from your sleeping lover.
Even the most bougie, discerning person on your list will love one of these cheeky cannabis-inspired products.
Momentum for adult-use cannabis reform on the European continent is stronger now than ever before, as demonstrated by lawmakers in Malta passing a legalization measure this month.
Malta’s president recently signed a measure that legalizes cannabis for adult use in Malta for possession, cultivation, and consumption.
Unfortunately, the measure does not include legalized sales, although the public policy change does afford for non-profit cannabis clubs which will provide some level of additional access.
The Netherlands has long been touted as the “cannabis capital of Europe” and while the nation will never become the first to legalize in Europe now that the ship has sailed, legalization in a limited form continues to move forward in the Netherlands.
Netherlands Pilot Program
Lawmakers and regulators in the Netherlands previously set up an adult-use cannabis pilot program in which certain jurisdictions will allow legalized commercial cannabis production and sales to adults.
The goal of the pilot program is to allow the limited rollout of a regulated adult-use industry so that lawmakers and regulators can study any potential effects and be better suited to craft national policies and regulations.
The Netherlands is not alone in implementing such a program. Switzerland also has a similar pilot program underway.
In late 2020 the Netherlands granted 10 licenses to entities for the purpose of allowing them to grow commercial cannabis to supply to the adult use market.
The government in the Netherlands recently announced that another “big city” will be added to the pilot program, however, the specific city was not named in the announcement.
With that being said, it’s a good sign to see that the pilot program is expanding, as it provides some level of proof that the experiment is working.
An Incremental Approach to Legalization?
Cannabis has long been ‘tolerated’ in the Netherlands, with cannabis being commonly bought and sold at world-famous cannabis cafes for many years in the country, especially in Amsterdam.
Because of so much rich cannabis history and a thriving unregulated market in the European country, implementing a regulated adult-use industry in the Netherlands is no easy task.
The pilot program approach provides for an incremental strategy that could very well speed things up in the country. After all, if you live in a city that is part of the pilot program, cannabis is effectively already legal in the Netherlands.
If the Netherlands continues to expand the pilot program, eventually it will become a nationwide program and essentially cannabis prohibition will be over.
Being that a regulated framework will already be in place in that scenario, all it will take is a formal announcement that legalization is implemented in the Netherlands, and that could be a much more efficient way to legalize nationwide rather than waiting on lawmakers to work out all of the details before anything can proceed.
Hemp is a plant with a rich history, a very interesting present and an exciting future. In our article on 5 surprising facts about the plant, we’ve already told you about some of its interesting details. But today, we have a big surprise for you as we’ve compiled a list of 15 more fascinating and sometimes fun facts about hemp that you probably didn’t realise. So, get ready, fasten your seatbelts, because we are kicking things off right now!
Fact #1. Hemp is not equivalent to the term “marijuana”
Let’s start with some basic information that many people may have been confused about before. Hemp and so-called “marijuana” both refer to the same species but are substantial variations of it. They have different characteristics, the main one being their CBD and THC content. Hemp is a name for the cannabis plant with a THC level below the legal limit, while the term “marijuana” designates the plants with a THC level above it. Also, hemp will not get you high.
Fact #2. Hemp can be an alternative to lithium-ion batteries
We all use batteries, and most modern ones are made of lithium-ion. However, research has shown that hemp batteries perform better than lithium-ion ones, demonstrating the potential for hemp to be used in this way.
Fact #3. Hemp fabric is a material with a long history and can have a variety of applications
Fabric is another material that can be made from hemp. The first archaeological findings date back to around 10,000 years ago in ancient China, making it one of the world’s oldest cultivated crops. Hemp fabric is a lightweight material that can be used to make more breathable clothes. Some manufacturers have already reverted to using this material because of its strength. For example, Levi uses hemp fibre for its jeans.
Fact #4. Hemp paper was invented before wood pulp paper
Do you take notes on paper every day? We suppose so. Well, we are indebted to ancient China for the invention of paper, but the country is the motherland of not only wood pulp paper that was invented around 2,000 years ago. Looking back in history, some researchers have found that hemp paper was invented around 2800 BC as one of the first applications of the plant (hemp was used as paper instead of papyrus). This means that hemp paper was invented earlier than its wood pulp paper analogue.
Fact #5. Hemp oil is not the same as CBD oil
Some people may think that “CBD oil” and “hemp oil” are identical, but that’s actually not an accurate statement. The main difference between them is the part of the plant where the oil is extracted from. CBD oil is derived from the hemp plant itself, whereas hemp oil is obtained from hemp seeds. The latter is also called “hemp seed oil” and contains minimal CBD content (little to zero).
Fact #6. Hemp can be used as an alternative to tobacco
Tobacco also has a rich history. At different times, people have used it for a variety of purposes. However, this plant has been the cause of many diseases and even deaths. Hemp can be an alternative to tobacco and is potentially more environmentally friendly. In addition, hemp doesn’t contain nicotine.
Fact #7. Hemp is a biofuel that can replace petroleum and diesel
Energy is one of the most pressing global issues nowadays. And people are trying to find the best alternatives to this resource. We have already talked about hemp and energy, and this fact is about fuels that can be replaced by hemp. In 1941, the first car made of hemp was presented by Henry Ford. Moreover, this car could run on hemp or vegetable oil. Hemp can also be used to make biodiesel. As the study shows, the conversion rate of hemp oil into biodiesel can be as high as 97%, which makes it an excellent alternative to petroleum and diesel.
Fact #8. Planes can be made out of hemp
Hemp can be the base material not only for cars but, surprisingly, also for planes. In 2020, it was announced that the very first aircraft made almost entirely of hemp will be built and run on biodiesel derived from hemp. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?
Fact #9. Hemp can help reduce deforestation
When it comes to the environmental features of hemp, it is worth mentioning that the plant can help with the problem of deforestation. As shown in fact #4, hemp fibre can be used to produce paper. According to various sources, 14% of deforestation occurs to satisfy the need for paper (4.1 million hectares of forest per year – the size of the Netherlands). Alternatives such as hemp can save trees and are more abundant (1 acre of hemp can produce as much paper as 4-10 acres of trees over a 20-year cycle).
Fact #10. Hemp can replace plastics and major companies are ready for that
Another global problem facing our planet today is the overuse of plastic. Hemp plastic consists of 30% hemp and 70% cellulose, so it may provide a solution, but it still has some obstacles and limitations (lots of water is needed to produce hemp and the impossibility of completely solving the pollution problem). So yes, it is not a panacea for solving this problem, but it can be a step towards more environmentally friendly development. Even major companies are switching to plant-based plastics in their production. For example, Lego plans to use hemp plastic to make its branded toy bricks by 2030.
Fact #11. Hemp seeds can fight world hunger
According to various studies, hemp seeds are potentially rich in various nutrients and vitamins, so they can tackle protein-energy malnutrition, meaning the lack of protein and calories in general, which is considered the most deadly form of hunger.
Fact #12. Hemp protein differs from whey protein and may have a number of applications
According to some studies, the market for plant-based proteins is growing. Like whey protein, hemp contains nine essential amino acids. Also, hemp protein could exhibit a high digestibility percentage. Additionally, a slightly nutty flavour and a vegan composition are distinctive features of hemp protein compared to whey protein.
Fact #13. Hemp can save the bees
Hemp is considered an environmentally friendly plant, and it can affect not only the earth’s flora but also its fauna. In this case, it is about bees, the pollinators of ecosystems. According to research of the scientists from the Maria Curie-Sklodowska University in Lublin, Poland, hemp extract can extend the life of bees affected by pesticides.
Fact #14. Hemp soap is not a fantasy
Did you think that soap made from hemp is something impossible? No, it’s reality, and you can make hemp soap yourself. All you need are soap moulds, melt-and-pour soap, hemp seed oil and other additives (about a third of the entire contents). And a few steps later, voila! You’ve got handmade hemp soap.
Fact #15. Hemp can reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change
And last, but surely not least, let’s not forget that deforestation has an impact on climate change on Earth. According to the experts, every ton of hemp produced can remove 1.63 tons of carbon from the air, which can also help deal with climate change.
Final thoughts
These were 15 more fascinating facts about hemp that we found for you. We won’t tell you that hemp is an underrated plant, but you can see that the range of applications it can be used for is vast and not limited to only CBD products. If you have any questions for our team of professionals or would like to provide us with a topic you would like to read about, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
21. Evaluating the quality of protein from hemp seed (Cannabis sativa L.) products through the use of the protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score method (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20977230)
